It’s no secret thatorthodontic treatment has traditionally been associated with the extraction of teeth, especially when dealing with such as overbites and underbites. However, advancements in orthodontic appliances, particularly the Carriere® Distalizer™, have made it possible for our Gainesville and Lake City, FL, orthodontists to produce remarkable results without the need for tooth removal.
Learn more about this non-invasive, efficient solution and how it allows patients to maintain their natural teeth while still achieving a perfect smile.
What Is the Carriere Distalizer?
The is designed to apply gentle, low force on your top molars, much like traditional headgear would, but without the obvious bulk and discomfort. This innovative appliance is primarily used to correct Class II (bad overbite) and Class III (bad underbite) malocclusions, which are severe bite issues where the upper and lower jaws are misaligned.
Typically, our orthodontists will turn to this type of device as part of Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, before any brackets are attached or other corrective appliances are introduced, allowing for uninterrupted distal molar movement. We essentially want the Distalizer to do what it’s intended to do before the metal braces or clear aligners come into play and “finish the job” so to speak.
How the Carriere Distalizer Works
The Carriere Distalizer is usually the initial step in the orthodontic treatment process for patients with severe malocclusion. First, our orthodontists will create an anchor point, or multiple depending on your situation, on a lower back molar in combination with an Essix appliance (clear retainer), passive lingual arch, full mandibular fixed appliance, or mini-screws. The Carriere Distalizer arm will then be secured to the upper teeth and if needed, repeated on the other side.
To increase the efficacy of the device, our team will connect an elastic band from the upper bar of the Distalizer to the lower back molar where the anchor point is. You’ll want to keep these elastics on all the time unless you’re eating a snack or full meal. It’s best to aim for at least 20 hours of wear each day.
Once teeth have been moved into the correct position, which typically takes a few months, the appliance is removed. At this stage, braces or other orthodontic appliances are put on to further align the teeth and perfect the smile. Your time with the Distalizer will lead to a more straightforward and efficient next phase of treatment because the molars are already where they need to be. Think of it like getting a head start!
Benefits of the Carriere Distalizer
It’s still an appliance that has to be affixed to your teeth so you might be wondering what the real advantages are to having the Carriere Distalizer. Well, for one, it’s non-invasive and relatively simple in concept. Unlike tooth extractions, which involve removing otherwise healthy teeth to create space, the Distalizer gently moves the molars into their correct positions without the need for oral surgery.
Other benefits include:
- Comfort and Aesthetics: Traditional headgear can be a lot to handle, often causing embarrassment for patients. The Carriere Distalizer is discreet and comfortable, making it easier for patients to comply with the treatment plan.
- Efficiency: The appliance works efficiently to correct bite issues within a short period, 3-6 months on average. This swift action means that patients can move on to the next phase of their orthodontic treatment sooner, resulting in a quicker overall treatment time.
- Customizable Treatment: The Carriere Distalizer can be placed on either side of the mouth, and in cases where necessary, two separate appliances can be used simultaneously on both sides. This flexibility allows for tailored treatment plans that address the specific needs of each patient.
Find Out the Course of Your Treatment
The invention and use of the Carriere Distalizer just goes to show that extractions are not always necessary for a straighter smile. Our orthodontists in Gainesville and Lake City, FL, are proud to offer this service and further pave the way for a more pleasant and effective treatment experience. To learn more, call one of our Progressive Orthodontics locations today to request an appointment.
